North Carolina Gem Mining

Digging up Franklin's treasures: Gem mining, the perfect summer activity

Over the years, many landowners in the area decided to import gemstones to their properties and open mining businesses. Today, only four native mines remain in Macon County: Cherokee Mine, Mason's Ruby and Sapphire Mine- not to be confused with Mason Mountain Mine & Cowee Gift Shop, Sheffield Mine and Jackson Hole Gem Mine and Gift Shop. The other mines are enriched, meaning gemstones are imported and mixed into the buckets of dirt customers buy. When school lets out, business at the mines really starts to pick up. Warren King, who works at Sheffield and educates visitors in the process of sorting gemstones, said that the mine sees thousands of visitors every year. In a good season, the mine has an average of a hundred visitors a day. "We open at 10 and sometimes by 10:30 people are on a waiting list," he said. It's unquestionable that the owners and operators of the local mines are as courteous to the customers as they are passionate about gem mining. A few miles away from Sheffield Mine, down Ruby Mine Road, lies Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine.Visitors taking in the mine are immediately greeted by the cheerful Montoya Maria who runs the mine with his son Raymond and his wife, Amanda. Seven types of native stones can be found at the mine, and as part of its service, Maria passes through the gravel after the customers have chosen precious stones to ensure they do not miss anything of value. Raymond Montoya said that Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is a good place to go for those looking for quality faceted gems. Though many of the big stones have already been found- in the 60s, gem mines stood shoulder to shoulder lining Ruby Mine Road- the mine is still rich in gemstones. "We find sapphires and rubies here every day," his mother said. Mining has remained a family business over the years, with many of the local mines having the same owners for decades. Mason Mountain Mine & Cowee Gift Shop has been in the Johnson family for 45 years. It has passed from Brown and Martha Johnson to their son and daughter-in-law, Thomas and Ginger. Thomas said that his parents are still active in the business, though. "We still make them work," he said with a chuckle.

Visit Gem Mountain for the Best Gem Mining Experience | North ...

Article by Robert Black

Its visitors and residents consider Spruce Pine NC to be a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. Since the location itself is mountainous,many outdoor activities are popular and your playground is the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can pursue excellent outdoor camping,mountain climbing,hiking,and trekking experiences in the place and make it a prime spot for your year-round outdoor activities. Check out the following places to visit and you will truly experience a recreational spot for all seasons.

Places for Outdoor Activities

Aside from the Blue Ridge Mountains,you also can visit the Springmaid Mountain for a horseback riding activity or the River’s Edge Outfitters,as well as the Tarheel Angler Outfitters for wild fishing activities. See your kid catch different varieties of trout in these fishing resorts. White water rafting is also a popular activity in Spruce Pine NC with its rapids in the middle of glorious landscapes. Visit either the Loafers Glory Rafting and Tubing or Loafers Glory Campground and River Tours for your white water rafting activities with your fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

You have not quite visited North Carolina if you haven’t been to the Gem Mountain for an exciting gem mining activity. Perfect for kids of all ages,this mining activity allows you to find valuable gems using prime mining equipment. For spelunking activities,visit the Linville Caverns that is also welcoming to kids. If you are on a holiday during winter,visit Spruce Pine NC and its high quality ski resorts. They may not be the prime ski sports of the country,but they offer the same ski experience,especially if you are also opting for a very relaxing vacation.

Restaurants and Shops

For dining during daytime,visit mountain view restaurants such as the Skyline Cavern Tavern or the Little Switzerland Chalet for a very nice dining experience. They promise a splendid view of the mountains and terrain,as well as delectable cuisines and famous barbeque meals. There are also a number of home cooking,barbeque restaurants,and little cafes perfect for dining anytime of the day. If you opt for a fine dining in Spruce Pine NC,visit Grassy Creek Golf &Country Club Restaurant or Best Cellar Restaurant.

An afternoon shopping is worthwhile if you visit Little Switzerland General Store and other little shops in the place. If you happen to be visiting during Christmas holidays,do not miss the Home of the Perfect Christmas Tree store. You do not have to shop for a tree,but the collection of Christmas trees,ornaments,and gifts is rich and worth visiting.

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